Robert Langer is a biotechnologist, businessman, chemical engineer, chemist, and inventor, currently serving as one of the nine Institute Professors at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He is recognized as one of the most prolific inventors in the history of medicine, often referred to as the father of controlled drug release and tissue engineering.
You are dubbed one of history’s ‘most prolific inventors in medicine’, having over 1000 patents around the world. How can the "think big" spirit of scientific innovation be preserved in an age that promotes specialization?
In my view, specialization actually enhances the spirit of big thinking in scientific innovation. This might seem counterintuitive, but specialization allows us to dive deeply into the specifics of fields like chemistry and biology, which is fundamental for groundbreaking discoveries. For example, take a look at how Moderna and Alnylam have harnessed specialized knowledge in mRNA to develop treatments for diseases that were previously untreatable. This specialization has not constrained innovation; rather, it has brought focus to it, enabling us to tackle grand challenges with unprecedented precision and speed.
You have also managed to found and co-found more than 40 companies throughout your career. What is your advice for scientists interested in business, who may consider these undertakings as mutually exclusive?
I firmly believe that science and business, rather than being at odds, can actually reinforce each other beautifully. Drawing from my own experiences, particularly with Moderna, I have seen how scientific ventures can flourish when they embrace business principles. My primary piece of advice is to excel in your area of expertise—be it science or business—and then find reliable partners who complement your skills. Business, like science, thrives on collaboration. It is about assembling a team where scientists understand the value of commercial strategies and business professionals appreciate the importance of scientific rigor.
Relatedly, your lab at MIT is legendary for its ability to spin off biotechs. What, in your view, are the key ingredients for a successful biotech?
Success in the biotech industry hinges on a mix of scientific innovation and strategic planning. A foundational aspect is having a platform technology—like nanoparticles or messenger RNA—that can be adapted to treat multiple diseases. This not only demonstrates the technology's versatility but also its potential for broad impact. Before spinning off a company, it is crucial to advance the technology to a point where it has shown promise in animal studies and is protected by patents.
Additionally, publishing your findings helps establish credibility. Beyond the technology itself, assembling the right team is critical. This team should include skilled scientists, astute business professionals, and investors who are in it for the long haul, ready to support the company through the inevitable ups and downs of development and commercialization.
What do you consider the most promising innovations in medicine today?
I am particularly excited about three areas: genetic therapeutics, cellular therapies, and the application of artificial intelligence in drug design. These fields are at the forefront of medicine, offering new ways to treat or even cure diseases that have long eluded us.
Yet, what is truly thrilling is the potential for discoveries that are currently beyond our imagination. Just as CRISPR emerged from basic research to revolutionize genetics, future breakthroughs will likely come from areas we are not even focused on today. It underscores the importance of supporting fundamental, curiosity-driven research—it is the wellspring from which the next big innovations will emerge.
As a pioneer of tissue engineering in regenerative medicine, what are your thoughts on the potential of animal organ transplants to humans? Can these prove as a better alternative to tissue engineering?
Including animal organ transplants in the broader category of cellular therapies, I see them as part of a spectrum of solutions rather than a standalone answer. Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, which I have worked on extensively, offer ways to create human-compatible tissues and organs. While the prospect of using animal organs, such as pig hearts, presents an intriguing solution to the organ shortage crisis, I do not believe it will replace other approaches. Instead, these technologies will likely coexist, each addressing different needs and challenges in organ transplantation. The diversity of approaches—from tissue-engineered products to organs-on-a-chip for drug testing—highlights the breadth of innovation in the field and the variety of solutions being developed to address complex medical problems.
Are concerns associated with genetic engineering and AI legitimate? If so, how should we address these?
Indeed, both genetic engineering and artificial intelligence stir apprehension alongside their advancements. Genetic engineering, a field dating back to the early 1970s, has certainly raised safety debates among scientists initially. However, concerted efforts and discussions have largely demonstrated its safety and immense benefits, particularly in drug development.
AI, though not a new concept either, has become more visible in everyday life, leading to increased public concern. It is true that like any significant discovery, these technologies possess the potential for misuse. Nevertheless, historical precedents of ethical, regulatory, and scientific communities coming together to address these challenges inspire optimism. The response to CRISPR controversies, for example, highlights ongoing efforts to harness technological advances responsibly, ensuring their benefits outweigh potential harms.
What are you currently working on?
Currently, my work continues to delve into drug delivery and tissue engineering. A particularly thrilling aspect of my research is the projects funded by the Gates Foundation, aimed at significantly impacting global health. Our lab's developments pre-COVID are believed to have benefitted over 2 billion people. We are innovating in vaccines, such as developing a self-boosting vaccine that could eliminate the need for multiple doses.
Additionally, we are exploring oral delivery systems for treatments against diseases like malaria, and improving nutrition through better delivery of essential vitamins and minerals. These endeavors leverage advancements in technology to address critical health challenges, especially in the developing world, aligning with my goal of making a substantial positive impact on human health.
Beyond pure scientific curiosity, what motivates you to continue innovating?
The main motivators for my scientific journey extend beyond mere curiosity. Firstly, the desire to maximize our contributions to improving human health globally is paramount. Whether it is through developing new treatments, vaccines, or nutritional supplements, the goal is to save and enhance as many lives as possible. Secondly, mentoring the next generation of scientists is incredibly important to me. Training talented students and postdocs, who I hope will surpass my own achievements and continue pushing the boundaries of what's possible in science, is both a responsibility and a source of great fulfillment.
